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We've collected the most frequently asked questions from our IELTS test takers, covering every stage of your IELTS journey. Our IELTS experts have provided answers and shared their unique insights.

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iconJun 26, 2025

Last answered by Jess

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Jess Christie
IELTS Expert
If you don't understand the instructions or you are having trouble navigating the test platform you can definitely ask for help from the test day staff. They are there to help you navigate the test. However, they will not be able to answer any questions or provide help regarding the actual questions. For example, they will help you if you can't figure out how to move on to the next question, but they won't be able to help if you are unsure what a word means.

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Jun 26, 2025
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iconJun 26, 2025

Last answered by Jess

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Jess Christie
IELTS Expert
Yes, you can! Please just make sure it is clear and see-through with no labels or words on it.
Jun 26, 2025
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iconJun 26, 2025

Last answered by Jess

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Jess Christie
IELTS Expert
No, you must remain for the entire duration of the test.
Jun 26, 2025
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iconJun 26, 2025

Last answered by Jess

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Jess Christie
IELTS Expert
No, you cannot bring a calculator in with you during the IELTS test.
Jun 26, 2025
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iconJun 26, 2025

Last answered by Jess

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Jess Christie
IELTS Expert
No, you are not able to wear a watch during your IELTS test. This covers all forms of watches, not just smart watches. There will be clocks and/or regular time checks provided throughout your test so you can accurately manage your time.
Jun 26, 2025
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iconJul 22, 2025

Last answered by Fahad

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Fahad Rafique
IELTS Expert
You are only allowed to bring a valid passport or national ID (if acceptable) on the day of the test. If there are exceptional circumstances and you don't have any of the acceptable IDs available, you may reach out to the test centre in your country to review the options available to you.
Jul 22, 2025
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iconFeb 7, 2025

Last answered by Jess

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Jess Christie
IELTS Expert
If you do your IELTS on Computer test, you will be given individual headphones for the Listening test. You will be able to adjust the headphones size and volume yourself to what is comfortable for you. If you do your IELTS on Paper test, the Listening test is often played over a loudspeaker to the room, so you do not have your own headphones. However, some centres may have headphones for the IELTS on Paper test. I suggest you contact your test centre beforehand to see if they have headphones for the IELTS on Paper test.

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Feb 7, 2025
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iconJul 22, 2025

Last answered by Fahad

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Fahad Rafique
IELTS Expert
The IELTS test delivery and standards are similar across the board and partnership. You can give an IELTS test in Canada or U.A.E. and will have a similar experience. Policies, procedures and protocols remain same across the IELTS brand.
Jul 22, 2025
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iconJun 26, 2025

Last answered by Jess

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Jess Christie
IELTS Expert
A good rule is to arrive at least 30 minutes before your test. However, some test centre or locations may ask you to arrive earlier than that. Make sure you allow plenty of time and check with your test centre if you are unsure!
Jun 26, 2025
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iconJun 17, 2025

Last answered by Rocco

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Rocco Nigro
IELTS Expert
No. You just have to be at least 16 years of age.
Jun 17, 2025
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iconJun 17, 2025

Last answered by Rocco

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Rocco Nigro
IELTS Expert
Get plenty of rest so you can focus and concentrate well. Get to the test venue in plenty of time ao you are not under pressure. Do something relaxing like listening to music or meditation.
Jun 17, 2025
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iconJun 2, 2025

Last answered by Jess

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Jess Christie
IELTS Expert
On test day you need to bring a valid identification - the same one you registered for the test with. If you do not bring this, you will not be able to sit the test. Additionally, you can bring with you a clear bottle of water with no labels. Nothing else will be allowed into the test room, but there will be a secure location for you to store your belongings during the test.

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Jun 2, 2025
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Fahad Rafique

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Canada

16 years

Experience

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IELTS Expert

Hello! I'm Fahad, and I've been a part of IELTS since April 2010. Having been born and raised in the UAE and then migrating to Canada, I can truly say that IELTS takes you places. I firmly believe that success belongs to those who actively seek it. I'm here to help answer any questions you may have about IELTS and guide you on how to take that crucial first step toward achieving your international dreams – whether it's study, migration or work. I look forward to supporting you!!

Last online Aug 2, 2025

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Jess Christie

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Australia

8 years

Experience

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IELTS Expert

Hi, I'm Jess and I’m an IELTS Expert who has worked in the world of IELTS for 7 years. I help test takers do the best they can in the IELTS test by providing them with helpful tips to ensure they have a smooth test day. I am originally from regional Victoria in Australia, but I was an international student when I went to Ireland for University. I came back and decided to work in the world of international education, which led me to IELTS.

Last online Jun 25, 2025

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Lewis Crannitch

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New Zealand

2 years

Experience

role

IELTS Expert

Hi, I’m Lewis. I’ve worked with IELTS in New Zealand since 2017 and taught English in Japan, China, and NZ. Having also learned a language myself in China, I understand the challenges test takers face. I track English proficiency requirements in NZ and deliver IELTS Masterclasses and familiarisation sessions to support preparation, share resources, and make test day easier. I look forward to connecting with you on your IELTS journey.

Last online Sep 15, 2025

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Linda Alley

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Australia

11 years

Experience

role

IELTS Expert

Hi! I’m Linda. I’m here to help you reach your IELTS goals by answering any questions you might have about the test and how to prepare. You may have seen me on our video podcast, IELTS Prepare by IDP. I also create learning materials and blog posts for IELTS test takers. Over the past 10 years, I’ve taught English as a Second Language to students from all over the world, so please get in touch if you have any questions on how to improve your language skills.

Last online Sep 16, 2025

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Reza Tasviri

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Australia

18 years

Experience

role

IELTS Expert

Hi, I’m Reza. I’m here to help you with advice on how to effectively use your knowledge of English to get the best outcome in your IELTS test. I can answer questions on what the test asks you to do, how it assesses your performance, and how you can show you have what it takes. I’ve been involved with IELTS for 17 years now. I’ve been an English Language teacher for 27 years and a lifelong learner (English is not my first language. I started when I was 17 and haven’t stopped since).

Last online Jul 9, 2025

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Rocco Nigro

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Australia

26 years

Experience

role

IELTS Expert

Hello, my name is Rocco and I am one of the IELTS Experts here at IDP. Since 1995, I've been involved in English language teaching, teacher training, assessment and academic management, which has helped me develop a wealth of knowledge about the IELTS test. I enjoy meeting students and test takers from all over the world. If you have any questions about how to do your best in the IELTS Listening, Reading, Writing or Speaking tests, I can give you some good approaches to help you on test day.

Last online Jun 18, 2025

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Vincent Blokker

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Australia

11 years

Experience

role

IELTS Expert

Hi! I’m Vincent, and I'm here to help you succeed in your IELTS journey. I live in the beautiful city of Melbourne, Australia, but I work with students from all over the world. I can help with advice and resources and answer your questions about IELTS. I also write blogs with tips for the test and have created study materials for IELTS. I’m an expert on any questions about the organisations, universities, and governments that accept IELTS for work, study, or your visa. Feel free to contact me!

Last online Jul 1, 2025

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Vishal Ramesh

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India

1 year

Experience

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IELTS Expert

Your friendly neighbourhood community manager

Last online Mar 4, 2025

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